Love That You Deserve - By Dinudi Hengedara

Written By: Dinudi Hengedara

Category: poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In her evocative poem "Love That You Deserve," Dinudi Hengedara offers a heartfelt exploration of love and self-worth, contributing to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This piece, submitted in the poetry category, delves into the complexities of emotional relationships and the inherent struggles of fighting for the love one truly deserves. Dinudi's work invites readers into an introspective journey, questioning the patterns and emotional inheritance that shape our understanding of love.

About the Work

"Love That You Deserve" is a poignant reflection on the unspoken battles faced in relationships. Dinudi Hengedara's use of vivid imagery and introspective dialogue captures the essence of longing and the desire to break free from cycles of unfulfilling love. The poem's contemplative tone encourages readers to consider the importance of self-worth and the courage needed to demand the love one truly deserves.

The Whisper

Original Submission by Dinudi Hengedara

Love That You Deserve

I am angry that you didn't teach me to fight.

Not to fight for the truth, or anything of that sort…

But simply to fight for the people that I love,

the people that I can't let go of.

But then, I can't help but feel that someone didn't fight for you too,

maybe that's why you didn't know how to.

But I'm still angry. With you, but mostly with the people who didn't fight for you,

or didn't pause to say that they loved you.

So maybe, you did the same thing that I do now.

Maybe you too knew that they loved you,

although they didn't say it out loud.

And maybe you feared, that the missing hours of company, of cuddles, of warmth and of attention,

and all the strings of affection that were lost, defined a part of you too.

Maybe then you pieced together the only explanation- the only one that you could see,

that YOU no longer had the glimmer they looked for!

So maybe you blamed it, on the face that changed and the body that grew,

the A's you couldn't keep and all the things you couldn't do.

But when all the tornadoes passed by, and even then they didn't flinch an eye,

maybe you too tried to forgive- just like I try to do now.

Maybe, even after that, someone didn't love you the way that you deserve.

Maybe then, you decided to accept the love that you get,

even if it didn't feel a bit right to the child you once were...!

But now, I want to stop the chain- to be the last link of this miserable game!

Maybe then, I'll learn how to fight for all the people that I love.

And even if it might feel too late then,

I'll still let you know of the kind of love that YOU truly deserve!

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious event celebrating the art of written expression. It invites participants from around the world to share their poetic and creative talents, offering a platform for diverse voices and stories. The competition is renowned for its diverse range of entries, showcasing the richness of global literary art.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Dinudi Hengedara for her powerful contribution, "Love That You Deserve," to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Her exploration of love and self-worth resonates deeply, encouraging readers to reflect on their own experiences. We appreciate her participation and look forward to her future endeavors in the world of poetry.

About Hashtag Kalakar

Hashtag Kalakar is a creative platform dedicated to providing artists, writers, singers and other creative talents with opportunities to showcase their work and reach wider audiences through competitions, features and creative initiatives.